Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride

Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
1204 reviews
Activity provider:
KJet
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Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
1204 reviews

Take an exhilarating 1-hour Jet boat ride across Lake Wakatipu and head down the Shotover and Kawarau rivers. Get an adrenaline rush as you take 360° spins and travel at high speed through the river.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Duration 1 hour
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

5
5 out of 5 stars
M
Margaret – New Zealand

We enjoyed the thrills, the jetting and the perfect number of spins. The scenery around us was stunning and we felt quite safe as we jetted along.

5
5 out of 5 stars
S
Sabina – Australia

Great fun. Expert boat drivingby Jack our skipper.

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Embark on a thrilling high speed Jet boat ride with 360-degree spins
  • Speed across Lake Wakatipu and the Shotover and Kawarau rivers
  • Benefit from a convenient departure point in the heart of Queenstown
  • Enjoy a perfect all-weather activity with heated handrails
  • Experience an adrenaline rush on a Kiwi owned and operated Jet boat

Full description

Get an adrenaline rush on a 1-hour jet boat ride, operated by the world’s first commercial jet boat company. Take in stunning views of the Remarkable Mountains and journey up 2 of the South Island’s most iconic rivers. 

Depart from the heart of Queenstown, and climb aboard the big yellow jet boat at the Main Town Pier. Hold on tight as you accelerate across the water and feel the exhilaration of a high-powered twin-engine boat that powers across Lake Wakatipu. Experience the twists and spins as you enter the Kawarau River and race past rocks and under bridges at speeds of up to 95 kilometers per hour. 

Grip the heated handrails and experience 360° spins while you speed up the shallow channels of the Shotover River. After 45 kilometers of pure adrenaline, return to the pier and see photos and videos from your trip.

Includes

  • 1-hour Jet boat ride
  • Safety briefing
  • Photos and videos (available for purchase)

Not suitable for

  • Children under 2 years
  • Pregnant women

Meeting point

Board the boat at Main Town Pier, Marine Parade, Queenstown.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
  • Camera
  • Sunscreen
  • Gloves
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Goggles

Not allowed

  • Luggage or large bags

Know before you go

  • The jet boats rides operate rain or shine, 365 days a year
  • Stay warm during the winter months with heated handrails
  • You are welcome to bring your own camera or GoPro. Be sure to hold it tight
  • There are no height restrictions
  • The minimum age is 2 years old, but children must be able to fit into the smallest life jacket
  • Dress for the weather conditions, and remember that you will be travelling at high speeds
  • There is no weight restriction to ride but you must be able to fit into one of the life jackets, with a maximum size of 4XL
  • Pickup can be arranged from Frankton Marina and various lakefront hotels with prior arrangement (subject to availability)
Likely to sell out

From $83 per person

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5
4.8 out of 5 stars

based on 1204 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Value for money
    4.6/5

Customer photos

+32
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5
5 out of 5 stars
M
Margaret – New ZealandMay 17, 2025 – Verified booking
We enjoyed the thrills, the jetting and the perfect number of spins. The scenery around us was stunning and we felt quite safe as we jetted along.
5
5 out of 5 stars
S
Sabina – AustraliaMay 7, 2025 – Verified booking
Great fun. Expert boat drivingby Jack our skipper.
5
5 out of 5 stars
L
Lyn – New ZealandApril 30, 2025 – Verified booking
Good fun and entertaining. Our guide was a good driver with a good sense of humour.

Product ID: 61222

Activity provider:
KJet

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